Sharks axe Steyn for Rebels

Sharks centre Frans Steyn has been dropped from the Durban-based franchise's starting XV for Saturday's clash with the Rebels.

Sharks centre Frans Steyn has been dropped from the Durban-based franchise's starting XV for Saturday's clash with the Rebels in Durban.

The Springbok midfielder's axing is one of seven changes to coach John Plumtree's run-on side which suffered their first defeat of the season against the Brumbies last weekend.

Plumtree hinted earlier in the week that he was unhappy with the efforts of some of his senior players against the Brumbies, and has rewarded his youngsters who impressed him in that match.

"There have been changes because of what I saw as poor performance," explained Plumtree.

"I was really happy with what Pieter-Steph du Toit brought to the team last week and we're continuing his development by giving him a start, it's the same with Kyle Cooper."

Steyn's place in the side will be taken by Meyer Bosman who came on as a replacement in the 29-10 loss to the Brumbies.

"Meyer Bosman deserves an opportunity too and we've taken Frans out to give him quite a big week of conditioning," added Plumtree.

Amongst the forwards Jannie du Plessis has a minor knee injury and his wife is about to have a baby, "so he's had a difficult week and Wiehahn Herbst starts at tighthead prop," the coach explained.

"Jacques Botes has been in great form so he gets a start this week and Ryan Kankowski will get a rest this week, the same as Craig Burden. They can show me what they have when they come off the bench."

The other changes sees Lwazi Mvovo replacing Odwa Ndungane, on the wing, while Cobus Reinach comes in for Charl McLeod at scrum-half.